Full Breakdown
SmartLess Podcast to Make Historic Debut at the Hollywood Bowl
9/9/2025, 1:50:26 PM
Historic Live Podcast Taping
The popular podcast "SmartLess," hosted by Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett, is set to make its live debut at the Hollywood Bowl on November 15, 2025. This event marks the first time a live podcast will be recorded at the iconic venue, which has a capacity of 17,500. While it will not break the Guinness World Record for the most tickets sold for a podcast recording—held by Mike Ward's "Mike Ward Sous Écoute" with 20,986 tickets sold in Montreal—it is expected to draw one of the largest crowds for a podcast taping in the United States.
The hosts expressed their excitement in a joint statement, saying, “We’re beyond honored, and honestly still a little confused, to be the first live podcast ever recorded at the Hollywood Bowl. The Beatles played here… and now, somehow, so are we. Sorry, history.” Tickets for the event will go on sale on Friday at 10 a.m. PT, with a presale for American Express cardholders starting earlier.
Background of SmartLess
Launched in July 2020, "SmartLess" has quickly risen to become one of the top five most listened-to podcasts monthly. The format features one host revealing a surprise guest to the other two, leading to candid conversations and humorous exchanges. The podcast has welcomed a variety of high-profile guests, including Robert Downey Jr., James Gunn, and Greta Gerwig. In 2024, SiriusXM acquired the podcast from Amazon, further solidifying its prominence in the podcasting landscape.
Upcoming Events at the Hollywood Bowl
In addition to "SmartLess," the Hollywood Bowl will host several notable events this fall. Danny Elfman will return for a live concert of "The Nightmare Before Christmas" on October 25 and 26, celebrating a decade of performances at the venue. This year’s cast includes Janelle Monáe and John Stamos, with Elfman performing as Jack Skellington. Tickets for this event are also available through Ticketmaster.
Moreover, the Hollywood Bowl recently featured performances by Josh Groban, who paid tribute to Los Angeles, and hosted the "Black Movie Soundtrack" event, celebrating influential Black creatives in film and music.
Criticism & Opposition
While the excitement surrounding "SmartLess" is palpable, some critics argue that the commercialization of podcasts may detract from their original, intimate appeal. Concerns have been raised about whether the live format can capture the same spontaneity and authenticity that listeners have come to love in the recorded episodes.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re beyond honored, and honestly still a little confused, to be the first live podcast ever recorded at the Hollywood Bowl,” — Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett
- “ On these special shows, Danny shares, “I guess it’s safe to say this is becoming a Halloween tradition by now.” — Danny Elfman
As "SmartLess" prepares for its historic live taping, the Hollywood Bowl continues to be a central hub for diverse musical and cultural events, reflecting the evolving landscape of entertainment in Los Angeles.
